Website of the UK government
Please note that this website has a UK government accesskeys system.
Main menu
Page menu
Disabled people
Direct payments - information booklet and contacts
This page contains useful documents about direct payments - they can be downloaded. There's also information on how to appeal against a direct payments decision or a failing by your local council.
Where to go for more information
Information to download
You have the choice to find out more information in two booklets. One of them is an easy read version. They can be downloaded from the Department of Health website or ordered over the telephone.
'A guide to receiving direct payments from your local council' is the name of the standard booklet.
The easy read booklet is called 'An easy route direct payments'.
If you order the easy read booklet over the telephone, you can ask for a pack which includes a book, a CD-ROM and an audio tape.
To order a copy of either publication, call the Department of Health publications orderline.
Telephone: 08701 555 455
Textphone: 08700 102 870
Lines are open from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
Specific queries
If you have an immediate enquiry about your own situation, your local council is the best place to start; each council implements direct payments in its own way. They will also be able to put you in touch with local support services.
You may also find it useful to discuss your situation with other disabled people who have experience of using direct payments.
Direct Payment or direct payments?
Find out about the difference between Direct Payment (pensions and benefits paid directly into an account) and direct payments (arranging your own care and services).
How to appeal
If you are unhappy with any action, decision or failing by your local council you can use your local council's complaints procedure.
If you're unhappy with services being provided by an agency or carer, you should complain to the agency or take it up with the individual.
Depending on the nature of the complaint, the Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate may be able to take it up.
Telephone: 08459 555 105
Email: eas@dti.gsi.gov.uk (for enquiries about agencies only)
Additional links
Useful contacts
Access keys
